Rowan - The rowan, or mountain ash (Sorbus aucuparia L.) is related to
serviceberries. The red berries were historically used to lure birds
into traps, and the specific epithet aucuparia comes from words meaning "to
catch a bird". Birds are also responsible for dispersing the seeds. Rowans thrive in
poor soils and colonize disturbed areas. In some parts of Europe they are most common
around ancient settlements, either because of their weedy nature or because they were
planted. Rowans flower in May. They grow to 50 feet and are members of the Rose family
(Rosaceae). They are cultivated in North America, especially in the northeast. Curtis Clark